Testing helicopter components using ZwickRoell testing technology

Marenco Swisshelicopter AG is developing a new type of helicopter featuring outstanding hot and high performance, designed to provide numerous operators around the world with a flexible platform for fast, straightforward delivery of transport, sightseeing flights and surveillance operations. It is essential that the helicopter is cost-effective and maintenance-friendly in service. The fuselage and many other components consist entirely of carbon-fiber composite, with quality maintained at a high level by means of coupon tests and component tests. An intensive operation is currently underway to set up a test center focused on continuous improvement of internal expertise. ZwickRoell is assisting with innovative testing technology.

A ZwickRoell HC25 (25kN) tensile/compression testing machine is presently in continuous operation, primarily for dynamic tests plus occasional static tests. As well as composites, the properties of materials such as new rubber mixtures and other materials with varied properties are undergoing investigation Dampers developed in-house are clamped on the HC25 and subjected to static and dynamic testing. During static tests the dampers are subjected to tensile and compression loading at constant speed up to a certain deflection By contrast, in dynamic tests a tensile or compressive pre-load is applied to the dampers up to a certain level before they undergo sinusoidal testing between minimum and maximum deflection at various frequencies up to 20 Hz. "Among others we have tested purely hydraulic, rubber and hybrid dampers. The results of the tests are compared with analytical calculations," explains Tobias Kuhn, Development Engineer at Marenco. The system is equipped with testControl II control electronics and testXpert R testing software, ensuring a high degree of flexibility combined with ease of operation.

Also owned by the test center is a 250kN tensile/compression testing machine developed by Marenco Swisshelicopter and suitable for both dynamic and static testing "The addition of ZwickRoell's Control Cube controller has simplified operation of the machine, while the Cubus testing software has helped us to achieve a significant reduction in workload," is Tobias Kuhn's view of the benefits of retrofitting the testing machine with ZwickRoell control electronics.

Kuhn goes on to describe plans for the further expansion of the test centre: "In the near future we will also be acquiring a Type HB100 (100kN) servo-hydraulic testing machine with testXpert R software and testControl II. Accessories will include a biaxial extensometer, flexure test kits for 3 and 4-point flexure tests, a temperature chamber and hydraulic wedge-grips. This will allow us to test materials under different environmental conditions. The twin valve in the hydraulic system will also enable us to carry out static or dynamic tests."

Figs Copyright Marenco

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